The Hindu Business Line : Mixed trend in Kochi tea sale

A mixed trend persisted for almost all varieties of tea at the Kochi tea auction. Though the dust sale witnessed a good general demand, it was comparatively low for leaf varieties.

Of the quantity of 9.79 lakh kg on offer in the dust category, good liquoring CTCs were firm to dearer by Rs 2-3. Medium and below medium bolder CTCs were barely steady and sometimes tended to ease. Orthodox Highgrown dust was lower, while mediums and secondaries were steady. CTCs witnessed enquiry from export buyers. Internal buyers and blenders were active.

As per the figures available with Forbes Ewart and Figgis Pvt Ltd, the best CTC varieties commanded prices between Rs 60-72, medium CTC realised Rs 52-57 and below medium were quoted at Rs 43-48. Highgrown BOPD fetched prices between Rs 95-100, while medium BOPD realised Rs 42-44. Secondaries were quoted at Rs 33-35.

The leaf sale, however, witnessed only a fair general demand and the quantity on offer was 3.68 lakh kg. Orthodox medium grades were barely steady to easier. Fannings was steady. Orthodox Highgrowns also tended to ease by Rs 2-3. CTC witnessed an irregularly easier market. Exporters were selective on Orthodox grades.

The best Nilgiri varieties commanded between Rs 56-73, medium Orthodox realised Rs 44-48. The best CTC leaf fetched between Rs 43-48, while medium CTC leaf were quoted Rs 38-41.